Raised From The Wild-Chapter 416: The Proposal

"Your Majesties," Prince Raquim began, his voice steady yet imbued with a hint of emotion. He stood before King Duncan and Crown Prince Ibarra, his head slightly bowed. "I am here to ask for Princess Amaya’s hand in marriage," the prince paused, gauging the king and the crown prince’s reaction to his confession.

When both remained silent, he continued, "My father wishes to express his regrets that he could not join me today. His health has been declining, and he wished more than anything to stand by my side to support me." His expression was solemn as he spoke, reflecting his deep respect for the royal family.

King Duncan and Crown Prince Ibarra studied the prince, who stood confidently before them. They tried to gauge the sincerity in his voice, and indeed, he sounded sincere.

King Duncan cleared his throat.

"Princess Amaya is still quite young, with a spirit full of dreams and possibilities ahead of her. However, should she accept your proposal, a betrothal can occur first." King Duncan spoke very formally, but he made it clear that he greatly respected Amaya’s feelings and desires, emphasizing the importance of her choice in her marriage.

Prince Raquim glanced at the crown prince.

"I abide by my father’s words. I have nothing against you. I genuinely believe you are an exceptional match for my daughter. Should she share this sentiment, we can begin arranging an engagement. However, I must consider that she is still quite young and may not yet be ready for the responsibilities of marriage." 𝒻𝓇𝑒𝘦𝘸𝑒𝒷𝓃ℴ𝑣𝘦𝑙.𝒸ℴ𝘮

"Thank you, your Majesties. I will take my leave now. Once Princess Amaya agrees, My father and I will return to propose officially."

"Say hello to King Hebrio for me. Tell him to take care of his health."

Prince Raquim exited the throne room in great spirit, a lightness in his heart and a confident smile gracing his lips. The warmth of the afternoon sun filtered through the high windows, casting a golden glow on the polished marble floor, but it was the goodwill of King Duncan and Prince Ibarra that truly brightened his spirits. He felt secure in the belief that they would find no fault with him.

Though not narcissistic, he held a quiet conviction deep within him: he was the most suitable candidate to be Princess Amaya’s husband, and that thought filled him with a sense of purpose and pride.

King Ralden didn’t have a son who was at a marriageable age. His eldest son was only six. Over the past two years, several noblemen from Lireya and the neighboring countries had fervently pursued Princess Amaya, hoping to win her heart. Among them was the son of a prominent duke, renowned not just for his lineage but also for his striking looks, as he had made a name for himself as a popular model. Yet, despite his charm and appeal, he could hardly compare to the status and prestige of being a crown prince.

Among her admirers was a man regarded as Lireya’s top tycoon, who, at just 25, had been named one of the top 100 outstanding men in the world. Known as the most sought-after bachelor across the three kingdoms, his charm and prestige captured the attention of many—but not Princess Amaya. She rejected his advances outright, leaving him stunned.

Another suitor, the son of the President of Chaneya, pursued her with grand gestures that made headlines. He presented her with extravagant gifts, including a luxury yacht and a private island in Chaneya. Yet, the proud princess of Lireya turned down both his offerings and his proposal, standing firm in her resolve.

The president’s son was persistent. He continued to woo her for three more months, but no matter what he did, he could not move Princess Amaya’s heart.

It was at that time that Prince Raquim decided not to approach Princess Amaya as an admirer but instead as a friend. He thought that it was a good decision on his part that he did that.

When news of Marx’s disappearance reached his kingdom, he was relieved. The formidable rival had vanished and presumed dead for two long years. With Marx out of the picture, the weight on Raquim’s shoulders seemed to lighten. The thought of competing for Amaya’s affection was no longer overshadowed by the presence of such a formidable opponent. Now, with the path seemingly clear, he could dare to hope that love might finally be within his grasp.

Over the past two years, he and Princess Amaya have cultivated a warm and genuine friendship. She always regarded him as a confidant and companion she could trust and rely on. He has been careful to respect the boundaries of their relationship, never crossing any lines that might complicate their friendship.

However, as Princess Amaya’s college graduation approached, a new possibility began to blossom in his mind. With her studies drawing to a close, it seemed their paths could intertwine more deeply and progress into a romantic relationship without the weight of academic responsibilities holding her back.

Prince Raquim felt an urgent need to assert his claim on the princess. Her brilliance and grace captivated everyone around her, making her a prized gem in the eyes of many suitors. The thought of losing her to someone else made him anxious. He knew he had to act swiftly to secure her affection before another could sweep her away into their arms.

He hurried back to the tea room where he had left his sister, his steps springing with anticipation. Everything now depended on Princess Amaya, and it was time to confess to her. His niece’s birthday party in three weeks would be the perfect time.

As he stepped into the room, he unexpectedly collided with someone. He staggered back slightly, his breath catching in his throat, and then he met the gaze of a pair of ocean-blue eyes that seemed to peek right into his soul. The intensity of that stare was almost overwhelming, sending a jolt through him and making it difficult to maintain his composure.

"How come it is you?"